Deadline: 29-Mar-2026
The Older and Active Community Grants provide $2,000–$3,000 to community groups supporting people over 50 in Darebin. The grants fund activities that promote social connection, active participation, age-friendly events, and initiatives addressing isolation among older adults.
Overview of the Program
The Older and Active Community Grants program supports older adult-led or focused community groups to enhance social participation, reduce isolation, and celebrate age-friendly engagement. The program prioritizes new and emerging groups, culturally specific initiatives, and events during Seniors Month in October.
Funding Details
-
Grant Amounts:
-
Incorporated not-for-profit organisations: up to $3,000
-
Non-incorporated groups: up to $2,000
-
Non-incorporated groups with an auspice organisation: up to $3,000
-
-
Eligible Expenses:
-
Venue hire, insurance, and incorporation fees
-
Staff costs: instructors, cooks, entertainers
-
Equipment purchase or hire
-
Printing and promotional expenses
-
Catering, transport, outings, and engagement activities
-
Who Can Apply
-
Eligible Entities:
-
Not-for-profit organisations, charities, incorporated associations
-
Non-incorporated groups meeting financial and organisational requirements
-
Groups auspiced by eligible organisations
-
-
Insurance Requirement: Public liability insurance up to $20,000,000 must be held during the project period
-
Priority Groups: Older adult community groups addressing unmet needs, cultural activities, and social isolation
Who Cannot Apply
-
Individuals
-
Political organisations
-
For-profit businesses
-
Groups already funded under the same program
-
Organisations promoting religion or associated with electronic gaming machine revenue
-
Organisations with outstanding obligations to Darebin City Council
Expected Outcomes
-
Strengthened social connection and engagement among older adults
-
Increased participation in age-friendly events and culturally specific activities
-
Reduced isolation for older adults facing barriers to participation
-
Enhanced community cohesion and support networks
How to Apply
-
Confirm eligibility as a not-for-profit, charity, incorporated association, or auspiced group.
-
Ensure public liability insurance coverage up to $20,000,000.
-
Develop a project that aligns with program priorities: social connection, age-friendly events, and culturally specific activities.
-
Prepare a detailed budget covering eligible expenses.
-
Submit the application through the Darebin City Council grant portal before the deadline.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
-
Applying as an individual, political group, or for-profit business
-
Failing to meet insurance or incorporation requirements
-
Submitting a project that duplicates existing funded programs
-
Budgeting for ineligible items such as religious promotion or gaming-related activities
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is eligible? Not-for-profit organisations, charities, incorporated associations, and auspiced groups supporting people over 50 in Darebin.
2. How much funding is available? $2,000–$3,000 depending on group type and auspice arrangements.
3. What can the grant cover? Venue hire, staff, equipment, catering, transport, promotional expenses, and engagement activities.
4. Is public liability insurance required? Yes, coverage up to $20,000,000 is mandatory.
5. Can individuals apply? No, only eligible organisations or auspiced groups.
6. Can the funding support religious or political activities? No, these activities are excluded.
7. Are repeat applicants eligible? Groups already funded under the same program are not eligible.
Conclusion
The Older and Active Community Grants empower community groups supporting older adults to foster social participation, inclusion, and meaningful engagement. By funding practical activities and events, the program strengthens connections, reduces isolation, and builds a vibrant, age-friendly community in Darebin.
For more information, visit City of Darebin.